Hobby horsing takes hold: Germany hosts first national contest

Horseback riding has been popular among children, teenagers, and adults for years. Equestrian fans argue that this sport offers a chance to commune with nature and a huge, powerful animal that responds to the slightest movement of the hands or calves. Not everyone has to jump over high obstacles to experience the magic of horseback riding. It is often said that the greatest pleasure comes from simple rides. But what if you have an allergy to the sport or if the nearest stable is far from home?

The popularity of hobby horsing has been steadily rising for several years. What exactly does this sport entail? Instead of using the muscle strength of horses, riders use their legs. Instead of an entire animal, they use a plush horse's head attached to a stick, which is placed between the rider's legs so it doesn't hinder movement, including running or jumping. Hobby horsing competitors regularly organise events where they test their skills. Until now, however, no event had achieved national status. German athletes were the first to attain this distinction.

On the weekend of 15-16 September 2024, the first national hobby horsing competition was held in Frankfurt. Approximately 300 riders competed in three categories: jumping over obstacles in two subcategories: by time and by precision and dressage. Around 1,500 spectators gathered in the sports hall to cheer on the competitors.

Max Gohde, a 15-year-old participant from Gifhorn, Germany, who has been training since 2020, told the "NY Post": - Hobby horsing just gives me self-confidence and I just enjoy doing it with other people. And now there’s also this atmosphere here, where everyone is just happy for you. And I think that’s just really cool.

Andreas Karasek, Director of Public Relations for the German Hobby Horsing Association, emphasised that hobby horsing is a demanding sport: -Of course, when you see it like that, it looks funny at first. In fact, it really is a strenuous sport. It’s a mixture of athletics and gymnastics, and you need to be in good shape for it. - He added that there are currently around 5,000 active hobby horse riders in Germany and 230 clubs that bring athletes together.